Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood
A historic memorial nestled in ancient woodland, honoring Sheffield's cholera victims and offering panoramic city views.
A poignant historical memorial set within tranquil woodland gardens in Sheffield, England. The Cholera Monument commemorates the 402 victims of the devastating 1832 cholera epidemic, with 339 buried on this site. Surrounded by ancient Clay Wood and established gardens gifted by the Duke of Norfolk, the grounds offer peaceful walking paths, panoramic city views, and a space for quiet reflection on Sheffield's industrial past and public health history.
A brief summary to Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood
- Claywood Dr, Sheffield, S2 2UB, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the best light for photography and the most peaceful atmosphere, with fewer visitors and stunning views of the city center.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring layers, as the woodland paths can be uneven and weather can change quickly in this elevated location.
- Take time to read the monument's plaque and reflect on the historical context; consider visiting Sheffield Archives to view James Montgomery's commemorative poem.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the green link cycle and pedestrian routes to explore the broader Norfolk Heritage Park area and city connections.
- Spring and autumn offer the most vibrant foliage and comfortable walking conditions; avoid peak summer heat and winter mud on the woodland paths.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
- Drinking Water
Getting There
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Bus from Sheffield City Centre
From Sheffield city center, walk to the main bus interchange and board bus number 43 heading toward Gleadless Townend. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes. Alight at the stop marked Gleadless Road or Drakehouse Lane. From there, walk down Drakehouse Lane to reach the entrance to Clay Wood and the Cholera Monument Grounds. Buses run regularly throughout the day with reduced frequency on Sundays. Single fare costs approximately £1.80–£2.20 depending on distance.
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Walking from Nearby Attractions
If visiting nearby Heeley City Farm or other attractions on Heeley Road, exit and head toward Heeley Road itself. Follow the road until you reach the junction with Claywood Drive, then turn right. After a short walk of approximately 10–15 minutes, you will find the Cholera Monument Grounds entrance on your right. The terrain is mostly paved with some woodland paths; allow extra time if mobility is limited.
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Green Link Cycle and Walking Route
The official green link, opened in September 2014, provides dedicated paths and cycleways connecting the Cholera Monument Grounds to Norfolk Heritage Park and Sheffield city center. This scenic route is suitable for walking or cycling and takes approximately 25–35 minutes from the city center depending on your pace. The route is well-signposted and offers a pleasant journey through Sheffield's heritage landscape.
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Taxi or Private Vehicle
Taxis are readily available from Sheffield city center; the journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. The postcode for satnav is S2 2UB. Limited parking is available on Claywood Drive near the monument grounds. Parking is free but spaces are limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or use public transport if possible.
Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood
A Memorial to Resilience and Loss
The Cholera Monument stands as a solemn reminder of one of Sheffield's darkest chapters. In 1832, a cholera epidemic swept through the city, claiming 402 lives in a matter of months—a devastating toll in a rapidly industrializing community. Of those who perished, 339 were hastily buried in a specially designated burial ground on land gifted by the Duke of Norfolk, near what is now Norfolk Park. The disease began in July and raged until November, overwhelming local authorities and creating profound social upheaval. The monument itself, designed by M. E. Hadfield and sculpted by Earp and Hobbs, was completed in 1835 and features a striking neo-Gothic pinnacle style. A plaque commemorates John Blake, a Master Cutler who fell victim to the epidemic, while the foundation stone was laid by the poet James Montgomery, who also composed a poem reflecting on the tragedy and the stigma faced by victims and their families.The Poet's Vision and Collective Memory
James Montgomery's poem, held in Sheffield Archives, captures the emotional weight of the epidemic and the isolation imposed upon the afflicted. His verses speak to the fear and ostracism that gripped the city, describing how families were kept at a distance from burial grounds and how the dead were denied the dignity of familiar resting places. Montgomery's work emphasizes the hope that through memorial, future generations would remember these victims with respect and compassion. The monument thus became not merely a marker of death, but a statement of remembrance and a call for dignity in the face of public health catastrophe.Woodland Setting and Natural Heritage
The monument is nestled within gardens established in the 1850s, adjacent to Clay Wood, an ancient woodland that has stood for centuries. These gardens were formally gifted to Sheffield by the Duke of Norfolk in 1930, transforming the burial ground into a peaceful public space. A shaded path, created between 1971 and 1995, winds through the woodland from Fitzwalter Road to the monument gardens, offering visitors a contemplative journey through mature trees and natural beauty. The integration of the memorial into this green landscape creates a unique atmosphere where history and nature intertwine, allowing visitors to reflect on the past while surrounded by the quiet majesty of ancient woodland.Restoration and Modern Recognition
The monument faced significant damage in 1990 when it was struck by lightning, necessitating the removal of its top for safety. Restoration work began in 2005 and was completed in 2006, led by restorer Jim Hurley and his team, whose meticulous work earned the prestigious 2006 Marsh Award for Excellence in Public Sculpture. In 2004, a clay cobbled mound art installation was added to the grounds, symbolizing the individuals who perished in the epidemic and providing a contemporary artistic response to historical tragedy. The monument is now Grade II listed, and its surrounding grounds form a conservation area that has received a Green Flag Award, recognizing the site's quality, significance, and environmental value.Connectivity and Access
In September 2014, a 'green link' was officially opened, providing paths and cycleways connecting the Cholera Monument Grounds to Norfolk Heritage Park and Sheffield's city center. This development significantly enhanced accessibility to the site and opened up the north-western corner of the grounds, which offers panoramic views overlooking the city center. The improved connectivity has made the monument more accessible to both local residents and visitors, while the cycling and walking routes encourage exploration of Sheffield's broader heritage landscape.A Space for Reflection and Discovery
Today, the Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood serve as a multifaceted destination. History enthusiasts can contemplate the social and public health challenges of 19th-century industrial Britain, while nature lovers appreciate the ancient woodland and peaceful walking paths. The site's elevated position provides stunning vistas of Sheffield's city center, particularly striking at sunrise and sunset. Whether visiting for historical education, quiet contemplation, or simply to enjoy a green space with character and meaning, the monument grounds offer a rare combination of natural beauty and historical significance.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Green Police Box
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Sheffield’s unique green and white police box, a charming relic of early 20th-century policing, stands proudly outside the Town Hall as a symbol of local heritage.
Sheffield War Memorial
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The Museum
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Crucible Stack
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Explore Sheffield’s iconic Crucible Stack, a rare industrial landmark embodying the city’s pioneering steelmaking heritage and architectural resilience.
Wicker Arches
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A dramatic Victorian railway viaduct running beneath Sheffield city centre, now home to workshops, bars and street art in a gritty, atmospheric urban space.
Iron Bridge
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Explore Sheffield’s iconic Iron Bridge, a stunning early 20th-century iron landmark offering rich industrial heritage and scenic riverside views.
The Chimney House
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Friesday Belgian Fries
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Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
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Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Rose Garden
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Experience the tranquil beauty of Sheffield's Rose Garden, a lush oasis of vibrant blooms and serene pathways perfect for relaxation and exploration.
The Glass Pavilions
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Lost & Found Sheffield
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bear pit
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The Well Sheffield
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Explore The Well Sheffield, a vibrant Baptist church in Sharrow, blending rich community spirit with stunning architecture and cultural events.
Bishops' House
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Explore Bishops' House in Sheffield: a historical gem blending rich heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant community events.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sheaf Square
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Sheaf Square: A vibrant, pedestrian-friendly urban oasis and cultural gateway in the heart of Sheffield city centre.
South Street Open Space
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A vibrant city park offering panoramic Sheffield views, an open-air amphitheatre, and peaceful picnic spots amid historic surroundings.
Sheffield Town Twinning, Commonwealth Bench
0.5 km
Explore Sheffield's Commonwealth Bench - a symbol of international friendship and a peaceful retreat in the city's vibrant heart.
Howst Food & Drink
0.6 km
Fresh, all-day brunch and vibrant café culture meet in the heart of Sheffield City Centre at HowSt Food & Drink.
Millennium Gallery
0.6 km
Discover Sheffield’s rich metalwork heritage and Victorian art legacy at the vibrant Millennium Gallery, a cultural gem in the city centre.
Graves Gallery
0.7 km
Free art sanctuary above Sheffield's Central Library, showcasing centuries of British and European masterpieces in peaceful contemplation.
Sheffield Winter Garden
0.7 km
A stunning tropical glasshouse oasis in Sheffield city centre, home to over 2,500 exotic plants and free to explore year-round.
Winter Garden
0.7 km
A verdant urban sanctuary: Europe's largest glasshouse brings tropical paradise to Sheffield's heart.
Crucible Theatre
0.8 km
Experience world-class theatre and iconic snooker in Sheffield’s intimate and historic Crucible Theatre.
Starbucks Coffee
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A welcoming Starbucks coffeehouse in Sheffield’s Tudor Square, blending global brand comfort with local cultural vibrancy.
Millennium Square
0.8 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Millennium Square, the cultural heart of Sheffield, filled with events, dining, and local charm.
Victoria Hall
0.8 km
Historic Methodist landmark and vibrant events venue at Sheffield city centre’s cultural heart on Norfolk Street.
Peace Gardens
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A tranquil urban oasis in Sheffield city centre, blending historic legacy with lush gardens and iconic water features.
St Marie's Cathedral, Sheffield
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Discover Sheffield’s Gothic Revival masterpiece, St Marie's Cathedral, a serene sanctuary rich in history, art, and community spirit.
King Edward VII Statue
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Discover the King Edward VII Statue in Sheffield, a stunning historical landmark celebrating British heritage amidst the vibrant city life.
Essential places to dine
Silversmiths
0.6 km
Elegant Modern British dining with a Yorkshire twist in Sheffield’s historic former cutlery works building.
COSMO All You Can Eat World Buffet Restaurant | Sheffield
0.7 km
Explore over 150 dishes from around the world at COSMO Sheffield’s vibrant all-you-can-eat buffet in the city centre.
Smoke BBQ
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Experience authentic American pit-smoked barbecue with bold flavors and generous portions in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Piccolino Sheffield
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and chic alfresco dining in the heart of Sheffield’s Millennium Square at Piccolino.
Ego Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar, Sheffield
0.8 km
Modern Mediterranean dining with gluten-free and vegan options, friendly service, and a vibrant bar in Sheffield City Centre.
Bella Italia - Sheffield St Paul's
0.8 km
Classic Italian dining with warm service and diverse menu options in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Mama’s & Leonies
0.8 km
Experience hearty Italian classics and warm hospitality in the heart of Sheffield City Centre at Mama’s & Leonies.
Browns Sheffield
0.8 km
Elegant British brasserie in Sheffield city centre offering classic and contemporary dishes in a refined, inviting atmosphere.
Miller & Carter Sheffield City
0.8 km
Experience premium British steakhouse dining with expert cuts, elegant ambiance, and attentive service in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
The Chakra Lounge
0.9 km
A vibrant vegan café in Sheffield city centre serving fresh Indo-Western fusion dishes in a cozy, colorful setting with a welcoming community vibe.
VeroGusto
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian fine dining in a cozy Georgian townhouse with exquisite homemade dishes and an exceptional wine list in Sheffield.
The Furnace - Sheffield
1.0 km
A vibrant Sheffield restaurant and bar blending British and American grill traditions with live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
Humpit- The Hummus & Pita Bar
1.0 km
Affordable vegan Mediterranean delights in Sheffield’s city centre, specializing in hummus, pita, and falafel with generous portions and fresh flavors.
El Paso
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Lively Mexican dining in Sheffield with authentic flavors, generous portions, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
ASK Italian
1.0 km
Modern Italian dining with local spirit and inclusive menus in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sheffield Makers
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Discover Sheffield's handmade soul in the Winter Garden: unique gifts from local makers, blending craft heritage with fresh creativity.
Bird’s Yard Sheffield
0.9 km
A compact, owner-curated Aladdin’s cave of local makers and quirky design-led gifts in the heart of Sheffield.
Søstrene Grene
0.9 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creative inspiration at Søstrene Grene, Sheffield’s boutique for art supplies, home décor, and unique gifts.
skytrend
0.9 km
Explore Sheffield's Skytrend Jewellery Store for exquisite craftsmanship and unique pieces that capture the essence of elegance.
The Works
1.0 km
Central Sheffield’s practical, budget-friendly shop for books, stationery, craft kits and everyday gifts — good value for quick, sensible shopping.
Shady Gifts
1.1 km
Bold, handmade sarcastic and drag-themed gifts in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre, perfect for unique and cheeky presents.
Glass Onion Sheffield
1.1 km
Explore Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing store blending sustainable fashion with stylish, curated collections in a unique urban setting.
Ryan Vintage
1.2 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Ryan Vintage, Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing boutique in the city centre.
Mint (New name coming soon)
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Discover Sheffield City Centre’s eclectic boutique blending fashion, jewelry, and unique local treasures on vibrant Division Street.
Rocky Horrors
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Discover bold rock-inspired boots and shoes at Rocky Horrors, Sheffield’s iconic alternative footwear shop in the city centre.
Preloved Kilo
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Discover vintage treasures priced by weight at Preloved Kilo, Sheffield’s vibrant hub for sustainable and stylish pre-loved clothing.
Sheffield Convenience Store
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Your go-to convenience store in Sheffield City Centre for snacks, drinks, and travel essentials, open late night for all your needs.
The Alternative Store
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Sheffield's fiercely independent hub for unique streetwear, hats, and jewellery since 1992—quality alternative fashion with local flair and eco-conscious craft.
True North Store
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Discover Sheffield’s craft spirit heritage at True North Store, a hub for artisan gins and unique local gifts in the heart of the city centre.
Vulgar
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Explore Sheffield’s vibrant vintage scene at Vulgar, a uniquely decorated shop with friendly service and eclectic fashion finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rutland Arms
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Sheffield’s beloved city centre pub offering world-class craft beers, inventive pub grub, and a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.
The Champagne Bar
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The Head of Steam Sheffield
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A converted Victorian bank turned busy craft‑beer pub on Tudor Square — big beer list, good vegan choices and a social, theatre‑friendly vibe.
Public
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Quirky underground cocktail haven in a repurposed Victorian toilet—creative drinks, intimate vibes, and Sheffield's inventive spirit in every sip.
Cheap Dates
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Affordable cocktails and lively vibes await at Sheffield’s beloved dive bar, Cheap Dates, in the heart of Orchard Square.
The Dove & Rainbow
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Sheffield’s vibrant rock pub with live music, cold ales, and an inclusive atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Yates - Sheffield
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Sheffield's all-day dynamo: daytime pub grub and sports, nighttime DJ beats and cocktails in the city centre buzz.
Bamboo Door
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A vibrant tiki-themed cocktail bar in Sheffield City Centre, famed for exotic rum drinks and lively late-night vibes.
All Bar One Sheffield
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Stylish Sheffield wine bar on Leopold Street for tapas, cocktails, brunch, and urban vibes near theatres and shops.
Kuckoo Sheffield
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Inventive cocktails and pulsating beats define this Leopold Square gem, where Sheffield's nightlife ignites in a whirlwind of creativity and energy.
Slug & Lettuce - Sheffield
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Vibrant Sheffield cocktail bar where every hour feels like happy hour—brunch by day, cocktails and dancing by night in stylish city centre surrounds.
The Three Tuns, S1
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A vibrant traditional pub in Sheffield City Centre, famed for excellent ales, hearty food, and lively karaoke and comedy nights.
Frog & Parrot
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Lively British pub and live music venue in Sheffield City Centre, known for quality ales, traditional food, and vibrant nightlife.
Trippets Lounge Bar
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BrewDog Sheffield
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Discover BrewDog Sheffield, a lively craft beer bar with a spacious beer garden, modern industrial style, and an impressive selection of brews in the heart of Sheffield.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Leadmill
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Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Temple Sheffield
0.5 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Tank
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A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
Code Sheffield
0.8 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
Plot 22
1.0 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Dempseys Bar and Club
1.0 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
The Viper Rooms
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Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
Corporation
1.1 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
1.1 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
1.3 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
Fez Sheffield
1.3 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
Al Ahsa Night Club
1.4 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Night Kitchen
1.6 km
Dive into Sheffield's industrial heartbeat at The Night Kitchen, where former cutlery factory walls pulse with electronic beats until dawn in a raw, inclusive nightlife haven.
Waikiki Beach Bar
15.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Volt Nightclub
19.6 km
Experience Barnsley's vibrant nightlife at Volt Nightclub, where lively music, dazzling lights, and affordable drinks create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Historic
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
